Parallels' Mac Virtualization Software Now In Stores

The software, now available in retail stores around the country, allows Mac users to simultaneously run Windows XP, as well as applications built for the operating system, in isolated "virtual machines" that run alongside OS X.

Parallels Inc. on Tuesday said it has started selling its software for running Windows on Apple Computer Inc.'s Intel Macs at major retailers.

The Herndon, Va., company's Desktop for Mac virtualization software will be sold at Apple's retail stores across the nation, as well as CompUSA, Staples, Office Depot, Fry's Electronics and Amazon.com. The software will be rolled out to retailers through next month.

The software enables Mac users to simultaneously run Windows XP, as well as applications built for the OS, in isolated "virtual machines" that run alongside OS X, Parallels said.

Depending on the ease of use of the software, virtualization applications like Parallels could help remove an impediment to Apple computer sales, the inability to run popular Windows applications, experts say.

In making the announcement, Parallels said Nova Development Corp., based in Calabasas, Calif., would distribute the software.

Parallels' technology differs from Apple's Boot Camp, which requires users to shutdown one OS before running the other. In addition, Parallels's product enables users to share files and copy and paste data between XP and Mac OS X programs.

Parallels Desktop for Mac sells for $79.95. A 14-day trial version is available through Nova's Web site.

As InformationWeek Government readers were busy firming up their fiscal year 2015 budgets, we asked them to rate more than 30 IT initiatives in terms of importance and current leadership focus. No surprise, among more than 30 options, security is No. 1. After that, things get less predictable.